Clochan

The National Monuments Service's description

Clochán (Cell) B described in 1996 as follows; 'Clochaun B: This clochaun and the adjoining clochaun C [KE104A001035-] are constructed on a stepped platform which rises up to 1.7m above the level of the paved terrace at SE and appears to overlie the foundation courses of clochaun A [KE104A001032-] at SW. A curved flight of steps at the S side of clochaun B gives access to a level strip of ground at the rear of clochauns B-D. The internal dimensions of the clochaun are 2.9m x 2.8m at the level of its flagged floor, which slopes down towards the doorway. The latter is 1.3m high and inclines in elevation from a basal width of 0.61m to 0.47m under the head; the floor occurs a step above its threshold slabs. Two wall-niches and an internally projecting slab, 0.95m above floor level, occur within. The dome, with its restored exterior, is closed by a large slab and gives an internal height of 3.15m' (O'Sullivan and Sheehan 1996, 278-90, no. 948 (6)).

See attached LiDAR image of monastery with Clochán labelled 'Cell B', taken from Bourke, Hayden and Lynch 2011, 7.

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Kerry. Volume I: South-West Kerry' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2009). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Revised by: Caimin O'Brien

Date of revised upload: 7 March 2022

References

O'Sullivan, A. and Sheehan, J. 1996 The Iveragh peninsula: an archaeological survey of South Kerry. Cork University press.

Bourke, E., Hayden, A. and Lynch, A. 2011 Skellig Michael, Co. Kerry: the monastery and South Peak. Archaeological stratigraphic report: excavations 1986–2010 (E338; 90E34; 93E195). Dept. of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Dublin.